Former Clemson Defensive Tackle Poised for Breakout in Second NFL Season
Former Clemson defensive tackle Bryan Bresee enters his second NFL season with mounting expectations and a clear opportunity to establish himself as one of the league’s rising stars. After being selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, Bresee showed flashes of brilliance during his rookie campaign. Now, with a year of experience under his belt, improved health, and a deeper understanding of the professional game, he stands ready to take the next step and make a significant impact for a Saints defense aiming to return to its dominant form.
Bresee’s journey from Clemson standout to NFL hopeful and now an emerging pro talent has been one marked by resilience, talent, and a relentless work ethic. His collegiate career was filled with both triumphs and challenges. At Clemson, Bresee was heralded as one of the top defensive recruits in the nation and wasted little time living up to the billing. He was named the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2020 and quickly became a disruptive force along the Tigers’ defensive front. However, injuries and personal hardship—including the tragic loss of his younger sister—tested his resolve. Through it all, Bresee displayed character and strength, qualities that have continued to serve him well in the NFL.
Bresee’s rookie season in New Orleans had its ups and downs, which is typical for many first-year defensive linemen adjusting to the speed and complexity of the professional game. He appeared in 15 games, recording 3.5 sacks, several tackles for loss, and numerous quarterback pressures. While those numbers may not have grabbed national headlines, Saints coaches and teammates saw the steady improvement in his game. His quick first step, ability to penetrate gaps, and relentless motor often forced offenses to account for him, even if it didn’t always result in a sack or tackle. Film review revealed a player who consistently disrupted plays and created opportunities for his teammates.
One of the keys to Bresee’s anticipated breakout in his second season is his improved health and conditioning. During his rookie year, he dealt with lingering effects from past injuries that limited his explosiveness at times. This offseason, Bresee dedicated himself to a comprehensive training program focused on strengthening his core, improving his flexibility, and adding lean muscle mass. Reports from Saints OTAs and minicamp indicate that Bresee has returned stronger and quicker, with a noticeable increase in his stamina during practice sessions. His teammates have commented on how much faster he looks off the snap and how difficult he’s been to block during drills.
In addition to his physical development, Bresee’s mental growth has been equally important. The transition from college to the NFL often requires players to not only improve their technique but also to master the complexities of pro schemes and responsibilities. Bresee has spent countless hours in the film room, studying not just his own performance but also learning from some of the league’s best interior linemen. His attention to detail has allowed him to refine his hand placement, pad level, and ability to recognize offensive line calls. This deeper understanding of the game has made him more effective at anticipating plays and positioning himself to make an impact.
Bresee’s role in the Saints defense is expected to expand considerably in year two. With several veterans on the defensive line either departing via free agency or nearing the twilight of their careers, Bresee has an opportunity to seize a starting role and become a cornerstone of the unit. Defensive coordinator Joe Woods has spoken highly of Bresee’s potential, noting that his unique combination of size, strength, and athleticism gives the Saints versatility up front. Bresee can line up as a traditional three-technique tackle, or shift to different spots along the line to exploit matchups. This flexibility not only benefits Bresee’s individual production but also opens up creative possibilities for the entire defense.
There’s also a sense that Bresee’s timing is aligning perfectly with a Saints team eager to reclaim its identity as one of the NFL’s toughest defensive squads. New Orleans has long been known for its defensive prowess, and after a season that saw inconsistent play up front, the organization is looking for young stars like Bresee to emerge. His ability to collapse the pocket from the interior will be vital, especially in a division where opposing quarterbacks thrive on clean throwing lanes. Bresee’s growth could be a deciding factor in whether the Saints can contain high-powered offenses and return to the postseason.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Bresee has quickly earned the respect of the Saints locker room. Veteran teammates have praised his humility, work ethic, and willingness to learn. Coaches describe him as a player who takes coaching well and constantly seeks feedback to improve. His maturity and professionalism, traits honed through his experiences at Clemson and personal hardships, have endeared him to the organization. That foundation of character, combined with his talent, makes Bresee a player the Saints can build around for years to come.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, expectations are high for Bresee, but he embraces the challenge. In interviews, he has spoken about his desire to not only elevate his own play but to help lead the Saints defense as a unit. Bresee understands that success in the NFL is measured not just by individual stats but by the ability to contribute to a winning team culture. His goals include improving his sack totals, becoming more disruptive against the run, and being a consistent force that opposing offenses must scheme against.
One area where Bresee could make a notable leap is in his ability to finish plays. During his rookie season, he frequently created pressure but sometimes fell just short of bringing down the quarterback or stopping the ball carrier behind the line. With added experience and refined technique, he’s better positioned to convert those near-misses into game-changing plays. Saints fans can expect to see a more confident and decisive Bresee on the field, one who capitalizes on the opportunities he creates.
Another factor working in Bresee’s favor is the support system around him. The Saints coaching staff has invested significant time in his development, tailoring drills and film sessions to help him address specific areas for growth. Veteran defensive linemen have acted as mentors, offering insights that only come from years in the league. That environment has allowed Bresee to thrive, providing him with the guidance and resources needed to reach his potential.
The broader football community is also taking notice of Bresee’s potential breakout. Analysts have highlighted him as a player to watch in 2025, citing his natural talent and the progress he showed in his first season. Fantasy football enthusiasts, defensive coordinators, and Saints fans alike are eager to see if Bresee can translate that promise into consistent production. If he succeeds, he could not only bolster the Saints’ playoff hopes but also begin earning recognition among the NFL’s top young defensive linemen.
Bresee’s story is one that resonates beyond statistics and game highlights. It’s a narrative of perseverance, growth, and the pursuit of excellence. From the moment he stepped onto the field at Clemson, he carried with him the weight of expectations—and he met them with determination and heart. Now, as he embarks on his second NFL season, Bresee has a chance to show the football world what he’s truly capable of. For the Saints, for his teammates, and for himself, 2025 represents an opportunity to turn potential into performance, promise into production, and flashes of brilliance into sustained dominance.
In a league where interior defensive linemen can often be overshadowed by flashy edge rushers or high-profile skill players, Bresee’s breakout would be a reminder of the critical role played by those who do the dirty work in the trenches. His success would not only elevate his own career but could help anchor a Saints defense hungry to reestablish itself among the league’s elite. As training camp looms and the season draws nearer, all eyes will be on Bresee to see if he can take that next step—and all signs point to a player ready to meet the moment.
